Rev. Cameron J. Bailey

Dec. 21 is the first day of winter. This day is the darkest day during the whole year for us here in the Southside. This day is when the poles are tilted at max tilt away from the Sun. It is the shortest day…longest night. This is also my wedding anniversary. This thang I married makes the darkest day brighter…the coldest days warmer…the shortest day just right. 

Another fun fact being pushed here lately on social media platforms is how Jesus was not born on Dec. 25. In case you didn’t know this nor have ever heard this, it’s true. Jesus was not born on Dec. 25. He most likely was born sometime in August or September… but no one knows the date. We can do figuring from historical facts and info, but can I make suggestion? 

Don’t worry about it. The specific date and time matters not. What does matter is that Jesus was born, lived, died for our sins, and rose victorious over the grave and promises to give life eternal for those who follow Him, accept Him, live for Him. But can I let you in on a little thing I love? I actually appreciate celebrating the birth of Jesus around this time of year. I like that the day we celebrate Christmas falls just 4 days after the darkest day of the year. And why’s that you ask? Because Jesus is The Light of the World. 

In John 8:12, Jesus tells: “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life (CSB).” And, in John 9 we read of Jesus spitting on the ground to make some mud and heal a blind man. Just before he makes his mud he again tells those present, “I am the light of the world.” I enjoy celebrating Christmas during the darkest part of the year. It reminds me even more so that HE is The Light of this world. He came into the darkness of our lives and gave light. If I accept Him, follow Him, am buried in baptism and clothed in Him then I will never again have any fear of darkness. Why? Because The Light is in me (Come on!). Woo! That dog’ l hunt folks! 

So, was Jesus born in August? September? Maybe the first part of October? Who on earth knows. And…it doesn’t matter. What does matter is accepting Him as Savior, living the best we can for Him, being active with His people as we strive to be the good needed and help each other. What matters is The Light came to dispel our darkness. 

Rev. J. Cameron Bailey is pastor of Kenbridge Christian Church. He can be reached at jamescameronbailey@gmail.com.